Airman Certification Standards
ACS CP.V.D
Normal Approach to a Hover
Knowledge
Types of approaches and applicability.
Performance data and the height velocity (H/V) diagram.
Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind and density altitude, on approach and hover performance.
Wind correction techniques on approach and hover.
Aircraft configurations for the approach and hover.
Aircraft performance and limitations.
Risk Management
Selection of runway/helipad/touchdown point based on aircraft performance and limitations, available distance, and wind.
a. Crosswind
b. Windshear
d. Wake turbulence
e. Vortex ring state (VRS)
f. Runway/arrival point surface/condition
Situations including:
a. Rejected landing and go-around
b. Powerplant failure during the approach
Collision hazards.
Flat light conditions.
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Skill
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
Comply with air traffic control (ATC) or evaluator instructions and make radio calls as appropriate.
Use the appropriate techniques and aircraft configurations through all stages of the approach.
Consider the wind conditions, landing surface, and obstructions and select a suitable hover point.
Maintain appropriate ground track with crosswind correction throughout the approach.
Fly a stabilized approach.
Arrive over the arrival point at a stabilized hover ±2 feet.
Execute a timely go-around for any condition that may result in an unsafe approach or landing. Commercial Pilot for Powered-Lift Category ACS (FAA-S-ACS-2)27
Use single-pilot resource management (SRM) or crew resource management (CRM), as appropriate.
Use runway incursion avoidance procedures, if applicable.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.